Casement window replacement?

Hi,

The only thing wrong with our windows is that the seals are broken so the glass is dirty inside. The wood and trim is just fine. Do we still have to replace the entire window and frame or is there a way to just replace the part with the glass? It seems it would be very easy to replace just the glass part with these types of windows, but would they line up properly if the frame isnt replaced too? These are casement windows on a brick house.

Thanks for any help.

 

It depends on the brand and type of windows. Some can be easily disassembled and the glass replaced. Others have sash frames that are permanently joined and the glass is almost impossible to remove w/o damaging the frames.

All manufacturers to my knowledge will sell just a replacement sash. They can normally be installed with basic handyman skills. The problem sometimes can be knowing who the manufacturer is. Look in the corners of the glass, and at the spacer between the panes of the glass. Normally most better windows will have some etched or engraved markings there.

Be prepared for one issue. If this is a clad unit (vinyl or aluminum) the exterior may not match the existing frame due to weathering and sun exposure. Wood exterior is no problem, just need a new coat of paint.

If you can't order direct from a distributor of the windows, a good glass shop may be able to remove and replace the fogged insulated glass unit (IGU). Expect to pay approx $100 (depending on location) plus the cost of the IGU, if you remove the sash and deliver it for repair. More if they have to come out, remove the sash, fabricate covers for the windows and then return to re-install.

 

If you look under Glass in the yellow pages you'll find companies that can give you estimates for replacing just the glass. If they come out and determine the glass cannot be replaced, a helpful business can often help you figure out what company made the windows and can either order the replacement sashes or point you in the right direction.

 

Thank you, these responses were most helpful!! I may be back if I run into any more questions with these windows.

Thanks again!!

 

Unfortunately the only markings I can find on the windows are on the metal strip between the glass panes. It just says 285?

These are wood windows, not aluminum or vinyl and they were made in the 1960's. I'm not really sure how else to determine who might have made them??

 

I've run into 3 types of wood sashes. One type has a phillips screw on all 4 corners of the sash (interior side, where the mortise and tenon overlap) and can be seen when you crank the window open. These usually have a rubber glazing bead around the edge of the glass on the inside and out. IMO, they are the easiest to disassemble and replace the glass.

A second type has removable stops- usually on the exterior... sometimes on the interior. These stops are sometimes brittle and may break when they are removed. By removing the stop, you can get to the glass to replace it.

A third type is not very replacement friendly at all. It does not have a removable stop, and the mortise and tenon has been nailed together, making disassembly and replacement of the glass quite difficult.

Not sure which type you have, but like I mentioned, if you contact a glass company, they should be able to help you out.